Pesticides – NSW overview

Pesticides control or destroy pests by physically,
chemically or biologically interfering with their metabolism, life cycle or
behaviour. Pesticides can be natural or manufactured substances.

About pests and pesticides

Pests harm or destroy agricultural crops, native or useful ecosystems, plants or animals. They are often introduced from other countries, and include:

weeds such as bitou bush and madeira vine

fungi such as myrtle rust which affects native plants

insects such as fire ants

animals such as foxes and cane toads.

Pesticides include herbicides, fungicides, insecticides, fumigants, bactericides, rodenticides, baits, lures and repellents. They also include products used on animals to control external parasites if they are diluted or mixed with water, unless they are listed as low-risk under the Stock Medicines Act 1989.

Regulating pesticides

Many Commonwealth and NSW government agencies, as
well as other organisations, manage pesticides in NSW. The EPA regulates the proper use of
pesticides through the provisions of the Pesticides Act 1999 and Pesticides Regulation 2017. The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary
Medicines Authority (APVMA) controls which pesticides are registered and sold
in Australia.

Preparing for safe pesticide use

The following information is important for anyone who uses pesticides

disposing of pesticides – general information on disposal and special
instructions for disposing of pesticide rinsate

registration and off-label use of pesticides – find out about the Commonwealth
Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) that assesses
and registers pesticides before they can be used in NSW to ensure they meet
current environmental, health and trade standards.

Compulsory training in pesticide use

Most people who use pesticides as part of their job or business in NSW
must undertake training every five years to

keep their knowledge up-to-date

minimise mistakes when pesticides are used

protect workers, their families, the community, trade and the
environment.